Bachelor of Laws - Main Campus

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The Efficacy of Plea Bargaining in the Promotion of the Criminal Justice: Pros and Cons
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-21) Frank Nyesigire
The efficiency of plea bargaining in the criminal justice system is examined critically in this study with reference to its operational, legal, and ethical issues. As a mechanism primarily used to expedite criminal cases and alleviate court congestion, plea bargaining has been a central component of most justice systems around the world. However, greater reliance on it throws grave doubts regarding fairness, voluntariness, and undermining fundamental rights. The study explores the historical development of plea bargaining, its statutory basis in various jurisdictions, and the different forms it can take, i.e., charge bargaining, sentence bargaining, and fact bargaining. It also explores the theoretical justifications which lend legitimacy to its practice, i.e., efficiency, resource management, and promoting judicial economy. However, it also refers to criticism that frames plea bargaining as a procedure that may compel defendants to waive their right to a fair trial under unfair bargaining terms and with limited understanding of the consequences. Methodologically, the study adopts a mixed approach: doctrinal analysis to examine statutory provisions and case law governing plea bargaining, and qualitative data gathered through questionnaires with legal professionals such as judges, prosecutors, and defense lawyers. This allows for a thorough understanding of the way plea bargaining works in practice and whether it is effective in its desired outcomes. The findings indicate that although plea bargaining can significantly reduce delays and expenses of trials, it may also compromise the ideals of justice by prioritizing expediency over the discovery of truth. Inequalities in legal representation, the discretion of prosecutors, and the limited supervision of judges often result in unequal outcomes. The research underscores the need for stricter procedural protections, greater transparency, and more standardized practices to ensure that plea bargains are truly voluntary, informed, and equitable. Lastly, the study argues that while plea bargaining is a good and precious institution in modern criminal justice systems, its efficacy must be quantified not only on the criterion of efficiency but also in respect for the rule of law and protection of individual rights. The article demands reforms aimed to enhance accountability, reduce coercion, and unify legal protections for defendants in plea agreements.
Assessing the Impact and Effects of Cyber Operations Under International Humanitarian Law in Kenya
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-21) Luke Gafa
Africa’s development and growth of Information and Communication technology has magnified. Digitalizing development and social economic development have coexisted, Kenya, Ethiopia and other African countries tell us the future of Armed conflict of a Non international and an International character. Common article 3 of the Geneva conventions provides for conflict that is not of an international character between organised groups and a high contracting party, or between organised groups themselves. Organised in the sense of having a leader, with a structure of command given from him. Considering the scale and effects of cyber operations, should constitute an armed conflict in that it should be targeting the high contracting party. Prohibition of attacks against civilians also applies to cyber operations because civilians are totally protected under IHL (NIACs) unless taking participation in these cyber operations. It is important to note that even if a cyber operation in a non international armed conflict does not rise to the level of armed conflict, that does not make the attacks legal.
A Legal Analysis of the Impact of Oil Spills on the Environment in the Area of Hoima District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-18) Judith Afoyorwoth
This study examines the legal impact of oil spills on the environment in Hoima District, Uganda, focusing on the effectiveness of existing legal frameworks in mitigating environmental degradation. The research adopts a qualitative approach, utilising a doctrinal and analytical research design to assess legal compliance, environmental consequences, and regulatory gaps. Primary and secondary data sources, including legal statutes, environmental reports, and case studies from comparable oil-producing regions, are analysed through content and comparative analysis. The study evaluates Uganda’s legal regime, including the National Environment Act Cap 181 and the Petroleum (Exploration, Development, and Production) Act Cap 161, against international standards such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the African Convention on Conservation of Nature. Findings reveal significant gaps in enforcement, corporate accountability, and community participation, leading to persistent environmental harm, including soil degradation, water contamination, and biodiversity loss. The study concludes that while Uganda’s legal framework is robust on paper, weak implementation, regulatory capture, and insufficient remediation mechanisms undermine its effectiveness. Recommendations include strengthening institutional capacity, adopting stricter liability measures, enhancing public participation, and integrating international best practices to ensure sustainable oil exploration and environmental justice in Hoima District.
Balancing Between Law Enforcement and Human Rights of Detainees
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Jerom Okware
This dissertation examines the role of corporate governance in mitigating financial distress within Uganda’s real estate and construction sectors. Financial distress in these sectors has been linked to poor management, weak governance, and adverse macroeconomic factors, which undermine business performance and sustainability. The study aims to analyze how effective corporate governance practices are such as risk management, board oversight, and strategic planning and how to improve financial stability and reduce the likelihood of distress. Using a desktop review approach, data were collected through a review of literature, financial reports from key firms in the sectors.
Intricacy of Plea Bargain in Uganda Criminal Justice
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-16) Leslie Stephanas Dogo
Through the aid of desk review, this study examines the extent to which plea bargain has facilitated in the promotion, protection and enforcement of justice in Uganda’s criminal justice system. The study highlights how plea bargain have been a tool in the alleviation of case backlogs in Uganda, protection of the rights of accused persons, reduction of prison congestion alongside improvement of inmates’ health condition, promotion of reconciliation rather than retribution and also put an end to unpredictable lengthy litigation. In evaluation of the nature of plea bargain, amid the several benefits which plea bargain inputs in to Uganda’s criminal justice system, statistics and studies have shown that plea bargain while addressing the shortcomings of the pre-existing procedure for criminal litigation, plea bargain has apposition new challenges which goes against both its core objectives and the principles of law which governs the administration of justice. All things considered, while understanding the positive roles of plea bargain programs in Uganda and how it tends to create new challenges, it is kin to acknowledge how all this affects the accused individual(s), the aggrieved party, and the society at large.
The Implication of Unregulated Cryptocurrency Business on the Financial Industry in Uganda (a Case on Consumer Protection)
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-29) Noble Nomwesigwa
This thesis presents the effects of non-regulation of cryptocurrencies in Uganda. Cryptocurrencies are a form of digital or virtual currency generated, exchanged and distributed exclusively online. They have been an issue with want of regulation since 2017 as the National Bank has time and time again released circulars informing the population not to partake in the purchase or even trading of these currencies. Recently, the Central bank restricted all its licenses from cashing out proceeds from the crypto currency business, which sparked legal action and a deeper question into why instead of regulating the sphere, the Central bank and other concerned parties (parliament) do not draft legislation regulating the sphere. In this thesis, we shall explore the different regulatory measures that have been undertaken in other jurisdictions to ensure that the rights of the users of cryptocurrencies are protected from the uncertainties that arise as a result of non-regulation of the cryptocurrencies.
An Analysis of the Development and Regulatory Framework of Cryptocurrency in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-30) Douglas Dusabe Ngororano
This paper examines the development and regulatory framework of cryptocurrencies in Uganda, tracing the global and regional emergence of digital currencies and assessing Uganda’s response within its unique socio-economic and institutional context. With growing crypto adoption driven by youth entrepreneurship, digital freelancing, and cross-border payments, Uganda stands at a critical juncture, weighing significant opportunities against inherent risks. The study explores non-legal aspects, analysing public awareness, societal impacts, and challenges such as consumer vulnerability, digital exclusion, and market volatility, while highlighting advancements in digital finance, blockchain innovation, and youth-led start-ups. The analysis also scrutinizes Uganda’s legal and regulatory landscape, emphasizing the roles of institutions like the Bank of Uganda, the Financial Intelligence Authority, and the Uganda Revenue Authority. It finds that the lack of a comprehensive regulatory framework creates legal uncertainty, increasing fraud risks and hindering innovation. The paper advocates for a balanced regulatory approach, including enhanced public education, regulatory sandboxes, and regional collaboration, to foster responsible cryptocurrency adoption. This work contributes to the broader discourse on digital finance governance in emerging economies.
The Effectiveness of Uganda’s Legal Framework in Addressing Medical Malpractices
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-29) Milly Namukwaya
Medical malpractice , also known as medical negligence takes the form that a medical practitioner breaches the duty owed by him/her to the patient in attention. The litigation surrounding it is growing too, inclusive in the developing countries like Uganda. Day by day, accidents are inevitable and this can happen in the medical field; medical practitioner can be victims of the same, however, in some instances where the practitioner is responsible because of their actions or omission these laws come in to hold the practitioner liable. This, is a challenge, yet, culminating over time and reported increase is seemingly taking its centre stage. It cannot go ignored, that is why the study unfolding aims to address the Ugandan legal frame work on medical malpractice considering how effective this framework both domestic and international ratified laws have been effective, the causes of medical malpractice in Uganda , the responsiveness to medical malpractice and it will conclude with the findings and recommendations in regards to the matter at hand.
Causes of Maternal Mortality in Uganda: Legal, Socioeconomic, and Healthcare Perspectives
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-29) Elizabeth Atuheire
This study examined socio-economic and legal determinants of maternal mortality in Uganda focusing on the effectiveness of existing healthcare policies and insurance coverage among women. The study was motivated by the persistence of high maternal mortality levels despite Uganda's adoption of multiple legal systems with a goal to improve maternal well-being. The study sought to assess the legislation that governs maternal health, analyze the role of socioeconomic determinants in maternal deaths, and discuss the effect of healthcare policies in Uganda. A mixed-methods study design was used, with the reliance on secondary data from Uganda's national health surveys and legal frameworks, and logistic regression was utilized to assess the relationship between maternal death and socio-economic determinants. Multiple harsh gaps and inequalities in maternal services were revealed in the findings of the study. On legal frameworks, whereas policies exist, such as the Uganda Constitution (1995), the National Health Policy (2010), and the Uganda Vision 2040, the implementation level is low. On socio-economic determinants' contribution, the research showed that levels of education were a strong determinant of the risk for maternal mortality (e.g., odds ratio for women who were not educated = 5.511, p = 0.000). Wealth status was also significant, with the poorest women being at higher risk of death from pregnancy-related causes (odds ratio = 1.575, p = 0.000). Age was also a significant predictor, with women aged 45–49 years having the highest risk (odds ratio = 13.601, p = 0.000). Health insurance coverage was drastically low, with less than 5% of women under health insurance, and few were reported to be aware of their maternal health rights. In general, the study calls for the strengthening of the enforcement of current legal frameworks, the improvement of access to maternal health services, and the narrowing of socio-economic inequalities. Policy recommendations include increased investment in the infrastructure for maternal health, prepping more skilled birth attendants, and bringing maternal health coverage into national health insurance plans. Practical Recommendations include road enhancement and emergency care provision. Areas found lacking in research include longitudinal outcomes studies and more research into cultural and institutional determinants of obstacles to maternal care. Keywords: maternal mortality, legal context, socio-economic status, health care policy,
The impact of Artificial Intelligence on the job market in Uganda, a third world country
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-05) Adong Wacha Rhona
This research seeks to assess the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the job market in Uganda. Through this research the impact of Artificial Intelligence falls both on the positive and negative impact. Three effects were discovered to include; the displacement effect where there will be massive loss of jobs but Uganda being a third world country presents signs that this could take a while to happen, the reinstatement effect which covers creation of new jobs which could take years. The productivity effect that would see enhancement in the different jobs in place. However, these effects will take long before realization in the different aspects in Uganda because development is slow.
Life After Sports, Examining Uganda’s Legal Framework on Social Security for Athletes.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-05) Mathias Katende
The aim of this paper was to analyze Uganda’s legal framework on social security for athletes. The pecuniary insecurity, paucity of career support, and limited access to social services. This study vulnerable to financial instability post retirement. Comparative analysis with international leveraging best practices from nations like USA, France, and Germany. Recommendations are proposed to enhance Uganda’s athlete social security framework, including support services. This research contributes to the development of a more efficacious athlete social analyzing international practices, and proposing a meliorative recommendations. A doctrinal significant deficiencies in providing comprehensive social security for athletes, rendering many paradigms revealed opportunities for Uganda to fortify its athlete social security framework, security framework in Uganda, promoting financial security and well being for athlete’s post cessation of athletic careers precipitates a myriad of challenges for Ugandan athletes, including scrutinized Uganda’s legal framework regarding athlete social security, identifying lacunae, approach was employed, analyzing Uganda’s statutory framework, policies, and institutional mechanisms governing athlete’s social security. Uganda’s extant legal framework exhibited development of bespoke pension plans, institutional strengthening, and enhanced access to career retirement.
Fair Use in the Digital Age: An Analysis of the Adequacy of the Copyright and Neighboring Rights Act in Relation to Digital Content
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-05) Alvin Rukundo
This dissertation critically examines the adequacy of Uganda’s Copyright and Neighboring Rights Act (CNRA) in addressing fair use within the evolving digital landscape. With digital technologies transforming the production, distribution, and consumption of content, the gap between the competing interests of copyright creators’ rights and public access seems to be growing. The study examines the fair use provisions of the CNRA in the face of digital challenges, evaluates Uganda case law, Angela Katatumba decision, and compares international approaches to copyright limitations and exceptions. Findings suggest critical deficiencies in Uganda’s legal regime such as minimal statutory direction concerning use of digital content and enforcement of the law. The study ends with suggestions for law reform and judicial interpretation in order to strike a balance and ensure that our copyright regime is technology friendly and forward looking.
The Study of the Mandatory Registration of Sports Federations and Its Impact on Sports Governance in Uganda.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-30) Julius Kizza
This research investigates the legal and practical implications of the mandatory registration of sports federations in Uganda as introduced under the National Sports Act, Cap. 151. The study critically examines the licensing procedures established by the Sports Act and the National Sports Regulations, 2025, highlighting both the intended improvements in sports governance and the significant challenges experienced by National sports federations during implementation. Through analyzing of the National Sports Act, Cap 151, National Sports Regulations, 2025 and available literature on the topic. The study assesses the role of the National Council of Sports (NCS) and evaluates the impact of the registration of sports federations. Key findings reveal that while the Act promotes national character, corporate legal status, and standardized governance, it also imposes heavy financial, administrative, and logistical burdens, particularly for emerging or underfunded federations. The research concludes that although the legal framework has the potential to professionalize Uganda’s sports sector, its effectiveness is hindered by implementation gaps, such as short compliance windows, lack of institutional support, and unrealistic coverage requirements. The Study recommends a phased registration approach, fee restructuring, targeted government support and enhanced stakeholder engagement to ensure that the reforms genuinely strengthen sports governance and foster inclusive development across all sports disciplines.
Mirror of the Law Governing Electronic Transactions in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-02) Judith Laura Amiyo
Electronic transactions are conducted through various platforms which have simplified online business. This is premised to a dramatic increase in transaction and trades performed electronically. The current laws under the commercial laws in Uganda, as identified in this study, recognize the existence of online transactions. With the current legislation, it is paramount that the existing legislation ought to cope with the speed of technology with proper laws to guide such kind of development. The study guides the reader in understanding the current structure of e-commerce and the proposed one with their benefits and challenges. The study also discusses some cases and crimes related to e-commerce and ICT which were directed to the court of law basing on the national legislation of Uganda and the international framework of electronic transactions at large. The study recommends modifications in the legislations.
An Analysis of the Compliance and Enforcement Mechanisms of the Uganda Wildlife Act
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-04) Ian Busingye
This dissertation provides a detailed evaluation of the compliance and enforcement mechanisms of the Uganda Wildlife Act, Cap. 315 with a view of investigating how effective they have been in promoting wildlife conservation efforts in Uganda and it suggests solutions to the challenges arising out of the gaps in these mechanisms. Wildlife is the major foreign income earner for Uganda and an important part of the biodiversity of the country with significant ecological benefits to the environment. There however are a number of challenges facing conservation efforts in Uganda including poaching and illegal wildlife trade which negatively impact species populations for example lions. This dissertation therefore draws a link between the challenges facing wildlife conservation efforts in Uganda and the gaps in the compliance and enforcement mechanisms in the Uganda Wildlife Act; it then suggest how best to close these gaps and solve these challenges.
Rethinking Authorship: The Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Intellectual Property Law in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-21) Joel Atuhaire
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant concept; it is actively reshaping how we create, communicate, and express ideas. As machines begin to generate music, art, literature, and code, the question at the heart of this dissertation is both simple and complex: Who is the author when the creator is not human? This study critically examines how Uganda’s intellectual property law responds to the evolving reality of AI-generated content and whether our current legal frameworks are prepared for this shift. Drawing on Uganda’s Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act, regional instruments, and international treaties like the Berne Convention, the research reveals a persistent reliance on human agency and intentionality, principles that are increasingly strained in an era of machine creativity. Through a comparative and doctrinal approach, the dissertation explores emerging legal models such as hybrid authorship, sui generis protections, and developer attribution, assessing their relevance and adaptability within Uganda’s unique socio-legal context. The argument is not for abandoning tradition but for reimagining it. If Uganda is to meaningfully participate in the digital and creative economies of the future, it must rethink how it defines and protects authorship. This work, therefore, offers a grounded yet forward-looking contribution to ongoing conversations about intellectual property, technological change, and legal reform not only in Uganda but across the Globe. It invites scholars, lawmakers, and creators to consider a legal future that is both imaginative and inclusive
Comparative Analysis of Legal and Institutional Frameworks on Labour in Uganda and USA and Their Implications on Workers Rights
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-20) Mildren Philomena Awor
This research examines the legal and institutional frameworks on Labour in Uganda and the USA, with an analysis on their impact on workers’ rights. The researcher thus adopted a desktop research method and to come at conclusive findings. The study was guided by both general and specific objectives which among others include to analyze the theoretical frameworks on labour rights protection, to explore the international labour standards and best practices on the protecting of workers rights, to analyze Uganda’s legal and institutional frameworks on labour rights protection in comparison with USA labour protections standards This study scores that both countries much as their development trends are not at the same pace, they have legal and institutional system in place that help in governing the workers and their rights such as protection against discrimination based on factors such race, sex, color name it, regulation of working hours and leave both countries have laws that regulate minimum wage although the specifics differ. The study delves further into the existing mechanisms on the protection of workers’ rights at the place of work. And the mechanisms for resolution of dispute which in both countries include industrial courts in Uganda and the Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and courts in the USA which is a more developed system of labour law enforcement than that of Uganda which is still developing. The Researcher concludes that much as both countries do have a functional legal and institutional framework and possesses numerous strengths, they do have weaknesses in their Labour laws and regulations and as provided possible recommendations which include Uganda strengthening its labour laws especially in the informal sector, enhancing collective bargaining and worker organization and promoting capacity building on how to better promote fair labour standards and protection of workers’ rights.
The Right to Privacy in Uganda: An Examination of the Role of internet Intermediaries
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-11) Ruth Comfort Kantono
The right to privacy in Uganda’s digital landscape faces increasing challenges due to the expanding role of internet intermediaries in compromising user privacy through data collection, surveillance, and inadequate security measures. This study examines the theoretical development of internet intermediary, exploring perspectives such as Actor-Network Theory, the Social Construction of Technology theory and the political economy of communication to understand the societal impact of privacy regulation. The objectives that guided the study were to discuss the theoretical development of internet intermediaries, to analyze the legal framework governing data protection and online privacy in Uganda and to assess the role of intermediaries in data protection and privacy. The research analyzes key statutes such as the 1995 Constitution of Uganda, Data Protection and Privacy Act, Chapter 97, Laws of Uganda (RevisedEdition2023), Computer Misuse Act, Chapter 96, Laws of Uganda (RevisedEdition2023), Electronic Transactions Act, Chapter 99, Laws of Uganda (RevisedEdition2023), and Uganda Communications Act, Chapter 103, Laws of Uganda(Revised Edition 2023). While these laws establish foundational principles for data protection, gaps in consent provisions, enforcement mechanisms, and AI regulation weaken their effectiveness. This study establishes that Uganda’s existing data protection measures are insufficient, necessitating urgent reforms such as strengthening data protection policies, improving user consent frameworks, promoting transparency, AI governance laws to ensure privacy rights are upheld. Uganda must develop tailored legislation to address these challenges, fostering greater accountability and ethical governance among intermediaries. By reinforcing regulatory structures, enforcement capacity, and user education, Uganda can establish a more secure and rights-based digital environment for its citizens.
The Role of Islamic Banking in Promoting Financial Inclusion and Economic Development in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-04) Shamim Nakamya
This paper examined the role of Islamic banking in promoting financial inclusion and economic development in Uganda. The fact that the concept of Islamic banking is a new one and therefore known to a few, the primary objective of the research was to assess its effectiveness in promoting financial inclusion and economic development in Uganda. The researcher adopted a doctrinal research method to analyse the existing laws and literature and found that, Islamic banking has the potential to address financial exclusion and improve access to financial services as well as boost economic development. However, despite this, its adoption has been sluggish with factors such as regulatory gaps, low awareness, misconceptions and lack of Sharia’h knowledge, hindering its development. Consequently, the study recommends that stakeholders launch public awareness campaigns about the role of Islamic banking in promoting financial inclusion and economic development.
Rights Based Climate Litigation in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-29) Cynthia Byeganje
Climate change is no longer a distant concern it’s a pressing reality, affecting lives, livelihoods, and the very ecosystems we depend on. Uganda, while having solid laws like Article 39 of the 1995 Constitution and the National Environment Act, continues to struggle with deforestation, pollution, and extreme weather events that expose major governance gaps. This dissertation explores whether rights-based climate litigation can actually work as a legal tool to enforce environmental rights in Uganda. Using a qualitative approach, it examines court decisions, local legal frameworks, international human rights treaties, and scholarly commentary to understand how climate-related cases are handled — and where the challenges lie. The research digs into enforcement issues like judicial inconsistency, low public awareness, and costly legal processes. Notable Ugandan cases, like Greenwatch v. Golf Course Holdings Ltd, highlight the real-world barriers faced by litigants seeking justice. At the same time, global cases such as Urgenda Foundation v. Netherlands offer inspiration for what’s possible when courts actively protect environmental rights. Ultimately, the study finds that while Uganda’s laws recognize environmental rights, making them work in practice requires more than legal text it demands reform, judicial will, better access to justice, and grassroots involvement. The study ends with practical suggestions for lawyers, policymakers, and activists who want to make rights-based climate litigation a real force for change in Uganda.

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